Culture and friendship: Cloppenburgers explore Bernay in France!

Culture and friendship: Cloppenburgers explore Bernay in France!

In a lively week full of cultural discoveries and warm encounters, 42 people from Cloppenburg traveled to Bernay to experience the French way of life up close. The visit, which took place from July 3rd to 8th, 2025, served not only to get to know French culture, but also to deepen the friendly ties that have existed since the twin town relationship was officially sealed in June 1989. How NWZonline reported, the stay opened with an official reception in the French city.

At this reception, Gabriele Heckmann, the deputy mayor of Cloppenburg, presented a stone slab engraved with “Amitée Cloppenburg-Bernay 2025”. This gesture complements an oak tree that was planted two years previously as a guest gift and illustrates the deep roots of this town twinning. Mayor Marie-Lyne Vagner's participation in the popular karaoke evening, where Cloppenburger and Bernayer shared their musical talents, was particularly pleasing.

Insights into Normandy

A highlight of the trip was the visit to the “Fromagerie Graindorge” in Livarot, where the Cloppenburgers were able to get to know the art of cheese production, especially from Livarot and Pont l’Evêque. Known for its excellent cider and Calvados, Normandy offered travelers a variety of flavors that provided plenty to talk about. The participants also had the opportunity to visit the “Musée des Beaux-Arts”, where they gained insights into the historical clothing of the region.

The intensive week also included a trip to the magnificent “Le Champ-de-Bataille” castle, whose extensive gardens allowed guests to visit them free of charge. In addition to cultural highlights, there was also time for sporting activities, such as playing golf together and exploring Bernay's charming old town. The supporting program was concluded with a gala dinner, which further strengthened friendships and offered the participants an unforgettable conclusion.

Town twinning – A bridge builder

The town twinning between Cloppenburg and Bernay is not just an event that takes place year after year, but also lives through regular exchange meetings between schools, clubs and private individuals. How Cloppenburg.de explains, the Cloppenburg-Bernay partnership association organizes annually changing official meetings in both cities, which are open to everyone. It doesn't matter whether you speak French or not - the bridge between cultures is primarily built through shared experiences.

In addition, the association promotes personal contacts, pen pal friendships, internships and au pair programs in order to further stimulate intercultural exchange. Events such as cooking and film evenings also take place regularly in Cloppenburg to experience the French way of life and strengthen connections. If you would like to find out more about the activities of the partnership association, you can find all the information at www.cloppenburg-bernay.eu.

At a time when international friendships are more in demand than ever, the partnership between Cloppenburg and Bernay shows how valuable and enriching the exchange between cultures can be. The successful trip is another example of how such encounters strengthen communities and build bridges across borders.